I go through tape measures like water. Any one else have this problem too? They generally hang out on my cutting table since that is where I use them the most and generally it is my rotary cutter that cuts their life short. I buy the cheap ones that Joann's keeps at the register and I pulled out my last one on Friday. It was bright yellow with white markings. I don't know what possessed me to buy that one since I can't easily see the markings. Since I had a coupon for sewing notions I went to JA. To my delight they make a 36 inch tape measure. I'm hoping that it won't end up under my rotary blade any time soon. I really do try to make sure that my tapes are out of the way when I cut but things happen. I wouldn't mind using my old tapes if I would cut them closer to the center but no it always seems to be within the first 5-10" and I don't like using the side where the smaller print is so out it goes. I had a quilting tape that I cut down into shorter lengths and discovered late that the first end had an inch before the markings and I had to recut 3 pieces of fabric. Didn't take long to cut that inch off.

I keep tape measures in my purse, on each of my sewing tables and in my sewing boxes but never on my cutting counter. On the counter, I have a folding cutting board with measurements. It saves on ruining a good tape measure. I love those retractable measures as they are easy to carry and the numbers are large enough to read. I also use the curve measures (like an architect might use) plus several sets of rulers. However, I do keep losing my seam gauges. I need to buy a few more the next time I'm in a sewing shop.Marty